Masks are returning as cases of influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, and COVID-19 increase across the country.
Due to the spread of respiratory diseases, Los Angeles County has issued a mandatory mask policy for all residents aged two and above in public buildings.
Masks, such as surgical masks or properly fitting KN95 or N95 masks, will be required for students in the Philadelphia school system for ten days following the winter break.
Even though they aren’t required just yet, NYC schools have sent home a note to parents urging them to have their children wear face masks that fit correctly. Dr. Ashwin Vasan, the health commissioner for New York City, also recommends that people wear masks indoors as a “common sense precaution.”
When COVID-19 levels rose, the State University of New York at Purchase and Nassau County Community College both temporarily made wearing masks indoors mandatory again.
Health officials in Alameda County, California, are required by state law to reinstate mask regulations in high-risk environments, including jails, emergency shelters, and homeless shelters, due to the high number of instances of COVID in the area.
One New York City doctor is warning that the “tridemic” might worsen if masking is resumed, especially among children.
“These young people have had an insulated upbringing. A common cold will easily infect them since they have no immunity. Sicknesses keep piling up on them, and they keep piling up on each other, “Gramercy Pediatrics Dr. Dyan Hes told Madison Alworth of FOX Business. “When you unmask them, what will happen to them? They’ll return to their safe environment.”